Top 20 Mountain Passes in the Iceland Mountains
Mountain passes in the Iceland Mountains traverse a landscape characterized by rugged terrain, volcanic features, and vast highlands. These passes often connect coastal regions with the interior, providing access to remote areas. Many routes are seasonal, typically open during summer months due to snow and challenging conditions. The region offers a variety of mountain pass experiences, from paved roads to challenging F-roads and hiking trails.
Best mountain passes in the Iceland Mountains
- The most popular mountain passes is Landmannalaugar to…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Landmannalaugar to Hrafntinnusker
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Waterfall at Öxi Pass
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Bakkagerði Village and Dyrfjöll Mountains
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Highest Point of Þingvallavegur
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The beautiful lake Meðalfell (north-eastern side of Esja mountain), or to Mosfellsbaer and Reykjavik, or to the lake at Þingvellir.
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View of Þingvellir Church and Mountains from the Small Platform
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View of the fjord from Böggvistaðafjall
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Sprengisandur Pass
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Mountain Pass to Grundarfjörður
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View of Gunnlaugsskarð
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Mountain pass road with a view of Eyjafjörður
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Tips from the Community
Partly very coarse gravel, but rideable
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A beautifully designed circular trail with plenty to see. Definitely a visit!
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Fantastic views of the fjord! The trail markers are clearly visible. However, you'll have to cross several small streams without any assistance, which could be problematic in rainy weather.
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Here you stand on part of the rocky ridge formed by the drifting continental plates. Looking east, you can see the "counterpart" a few kilometers further on, on the other side of the valley.
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From here you have a beautiful panoramic view of Thingvellir National Park.
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Nice side road over the Öxipass with much less traffic than on the Ringstrasse. Quite steep in places on the south side.
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A beautiful road in itself. The scenery was great. As we struggled up the hill with our heavily loaded bikes after four days of silence in the highlands, we found the traffic to be quite heavy. Several vehicles drove very close by, despite oncoming traffic.
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Landmannalaugar has long attracted me with its splendid colors and the shapes of its mountains. Now that I was finally there, the reality surpassed any images I had ever seen. A kaleidoscopic play of yellow, red and greenish-gray awaited me. To get to Landmannalaugar safely and comfortably, I recommend taking the highland bus. The weather in Iceland can be treacherous and taking the bus will save you unnecessary worries. On site you will find a well-marked and relatively easy circular route that takes you through the impressive Grænagil gorge, over the mystical Laugahraun lava field, past the smoking fumaroles and mud pots of the Brennisteinsalda volcano. It is a circular route that always brings you back to the starting point in Landmannalaugar. For the more adventurous among you, there is a more challenging circular hike. This leads from the cozy hut in Landmannalaugar over the Litla Brandsgil gorge and the mountain Skalli - and of course you can't miss a stroll past Brennisteinsalda. My personal highlight was the climb to Brennisteinsalda. Imagine climbing up through steaming clouds of sulfur gases and seeing this volcano towering before you in all its colors. And yes, it has an unusual shape! The short detour to the summit is definitely worth it - the view is simply indescribable. On the way you will repeatedly come across wooden posts and large, stacked stone towers. These are important, especially in fog, because they show you the way. However, there is one thing you should avoid: don't build your own cairns. They are important landmarks and cultural assets in Iceland. If you follow the Laugavegur trekking trail, you will also reach Hrafntinnusker, an impressive mountain that rises up to 1141 meters into the sky. A landscape characterized by volcanic sand and shiny obsidian awaits you here. Another highlight is the ice cave, which, despite collapsing a few years ago, is still an impressive destination for a short hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most scenic mountain passes in the Iceland Mountains?
The Iceland Mountains offer numerous scenic passes. The Landmannalaugar to Hrafntinnusker trail is renowned for its iconic mountain colors and shapes, featuring volcanic sand and obsidian. Öxi Pass (Route 939) in East Iceland provides amazing views with dramatic waterfalls and remote valleys. Fjarðarheiði Mountain Pass (Route 93) is Iceland's highest paved road, offering panoramic views over Seyðisfjörður and Egilsstaðir.
When is the best time to visit the mountain passes in the Iceland Mountains?
Many mountain passes and highland routes in the Iceland Mountains are seasonal. They typically open from early June to late September or early October, depending on snowmelt and weather conditions. It's crucial to check the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website for real-time updates on road conditions before planning your trip.
Are there any family-friendly mountain passes or viewpoints in the Iceland Mountains?
Yes, there are options suitable for families. The Highest Point of Þingvallavegur is categorized as family-friendly. Additionally, the View of Þingvellir Church and Mountains from the Small Platform offers a beautiful panoramic view of Thingvellir National Park and is also family-friendly.
What kind of unique geological features can I expect to see around the mountain passes?
The Iceland Mountains are rich in unique geological features. In areas like Landmannalaugar, you'll find vibrant rhyolite mountains that glow in shades of red, green, yellow, and orange, along with volcanic valleys and moss-covered lava fields. Passes like Öxi feature dramatic waterfalls, while the interior highlands traversed by Sprengisandur Pass offer vast, untouched landscapes.
What outdoor activities can I do near these mountain passes?
The region around the mountain passes offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy, moderate, and challenging options. For example, there are many hiking routes, mountain hikes, and even running trails. Many passes also lead to secluded waterfalls, glacial lakes, and natural hot springs.
Are there challenging mountain passes for experienced adventurers?
Absolutely. The Sprengisandur Pass (F26) is a true wilderness experience, often involving river crossings, recommended for those seeking solitude and dramatic, untouched landscapes. The Laugavegur Trail, which includes sections like Hrafntinnusker and Fimmvörðuháls, is Iceland's most famous multi-day hike and features significant challenging mountain pass-like sections.
What is the Kjölur Route (F35) and what does it offer?
The Kjölur Route (F35), also known as Kjalvegur, is an F-road that traverses the middle of the Icelandic Highlands. It's considered one of the best-maintained F-roads and leads to destinations like Kerlingarfjöll, known for its colorful mountains and geothermal activity. While the main route has no river crossings, the final stretch to Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Resort can be very bumpy.
Where can I find less crowded mountain passes in the Iceland Mountains?
For a more remote experience, Öxi Pass (Route 939) is known for providing an escape from crowded tourist spots with its dramatic waterfalls and remote valleys. The Sprengisandur Pass (F26) also offers a vast, lonely, and cool environment in the middle of the desert, ideal for those seeking solitude and untouched landscapes.
Are there any mountain passes with notable viewpoints of fjords?
Yes, Fjarðarheiði Mountain Pass (Route 93) offers gorgeous panoramic views over Seyðisfjörður and the fjord. Another excellent spot is the View of the fjord from Böggvistaðafjall, which provides fantastic views of the fjord, though it involves crossing several small streams.
What do visitors enjoy most about the mountain passes in the Iceland Mountains?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking scenery, the vibrant and unique colors of the mountains, and the sense of untouched wilderness. Many are captivated by the dramatic landscapes, including volcanic features, waterfalls, and panoramic fjord views. The opportunity for challenging hikes and the solitude found in the highlands are also highly valued.
Can I find hot springs near any of the mountain passes?
Yes, the Landmannalaugar area, which features significant mountain pass-like sections along the Laugavegur Trail, is a geothermal wonderland. It's renowned for its natural hot springs, providing a warm, relaxing escape amidst the rugged terrain. You can find trails weaving through volcanic valleys and past these geothermal pools.
What is the Öxi Pass known for?
Öxi Pass (Route 939) in East Iceland is known as a scenic shortcut connecting the East Fjords with the Ring Road. It offers amazing views, dramatic waterfalls, and remote valleys. While it has gravel road sections and steep declines, it's considered a beautiful drive for those comfortable with such conditions, providing an escape from more crowded areas.
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